Actress Michaela Jaé, formerly known as MJ Rodriguez, became the first out trans woman performer to be nominated in a major category — Outstanding Lead Actress for performance in the FX Networks drama series POSE.
Rodriguez responded to the news by posting on Instagram saying, “This is for us. This is for us, y’all. This is for us, period,”
Adding, “I’ve been wanting to express and feel and spread love all my life, and I always wanted to spread it through my art. I finally feel like I can do it and I finally feel like people are seeing it.”
Billy Porter, who plays PrayTell in the series, was also nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series for POSE and recognized Rodriguez’s nod on his IG.
The 73rd Emmy Awards will air live on CBS and Paramount+ on Sept. 19, hosted by comedian and actor Cedric The Entertainer.
